Woven Pillow - Aurora

Made by ProTeje

$ 120.00

Liven up your living room landscape with a hand-woven, naturally dyed pillow. Our pillow collection is perfect for mixing and matching different designs and colors. Each purchase supports artisans at ProTeje in Guatemala.

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ProTeje

ProTeje works as a support program for more than 80 women weavers in communities throughout Guatemala. They are committed to the preservation of backstrap loom weaving. This incredible technique, traditionally practiced by women, has been passed down through generations but is becoming less common over time. Most of the women working with ProTeje are between 40 to 50 years old. Some work with their mothers and daughters, representing three generations of women committed to preserving this traditional technique. The weavers meet once a month and receive information and materials from ProTeje. ProTeje, in turn, provides these women with a source of income, which allows them to take care of their families and provide their children with access to a higher quality of education.
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Technique

Backstrap weaving is an ancient art form that has been used around the world for generations and is still used in many regions today. Several of The Little Market’s artisan partners in Guatemala use this technique to weave the beautiful textiles used to make some of our most popular products, including overnight bags, luggage tags, and pillows. These intricate products tell a rich cultural story, while supporting the talented women who weave them.

The loom used for backstrap weaving is simple and portable, often made by the weavers themselves using wooden rods. One end is tied to a tree or post, while the other end is secured to the weaver’s waist using a strap — hence the name “backstrap loom.”
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Guatemala

Guatemala, the “land of the forests” is an alive and ancestral country whose history dates from four thousand years ago when the Mayan civilization emerged. Its legacy is still evident in its extraordinary cultural richness, which is reflected in the colorful handicraft markets and regional costumes, its hospitality, and the beauty of the landscapes that frame the volcanoes, lakes, rivers, and mountains. Today 21 different ethnic groups of Mayan, Ladinos, Garifunas, and Xincas have all contributed to Guatemalan customs and traditions. The handicrafts are an expression of the Guatemalan culture: handmade, colorful textiles, carved wood, silver, jade jewelry, candles, pottery, blown glass, leather articles, and many more handicrafts that characterize the cultural diversity of this small, but wonderful country. Learn More

Fair Trade Products

Fair Trade is an approach to international trade centered around equitable partnerships, transparency and respect. It seeks to empower marginalized producers by providing them safe working conditions, fair pay, and a means to establish a sustainable business free from exploitation. As a member of the Fair Trade Federation, we are committed to the Fair Trade principles. Learn More